A dangerous Nipah virus outbreak has been reported near Kolkata, India, for which there is neither a vaccine nor effective treatment. This information was reported by The Economic Times.
Five cases of infection have been identified in West Bengal, three of which were recorded this week. Among the affected are a doctor, a nurse, and another medical staff member.
Two nurses working at a private hospital near Kolkata fell ill right after the New Year holidays. Both developed a high fever and experienced breathing difficulties. One of them fell into a coma, presumably having contracted the virus while treating a patient who died before tests could be conducted.
In light of the situation, Indian authorities have decided to quarantine 100 people.
It is important to note that the Nipah virus is deadly and has neither a vaccine nor treatment. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies it as a high-risk pathogen. The lethality of Nipah ranges from 40% to 70%, as the virus can cause brain swelling.
Transmission among humans is quite rare; the virus is most often transmitted through bats or contaminated fruits. Symptoms include high fever, headaches, muscle pain, and general weakness. The infection may be accompanied by cough, shortness of breath, and pneumonia.
Source: RBC
